Struggling to decide between canned tomatoes vs fresh ones? We’re here to help you make that choice. From their health benefits to environmental impact, here’s the ultimate guide to canned tomatoes.
When it comes to incorporating tomatoes in your diet, you may find yourself faced with a common dilemma: fresh or canned? While fresh tomatoes have long been regarded as the epitome of flavor and nutrition, canned tomatoes offer a compelling array of advantages that make them a kitchen essential. From their year-round availability and extended shelf life to their convenience and intensified flavors, canned tomatoes have continued to carve a place for themselves in countless culinary creations.
In this ultimate guide to canned tomatoes, we will delve into the reasons why canned tomatoes deserve a spot in your pantry, from their availability and convenience to flavor and nutritional benefits. So, let’s uncover the wonders of canned tomatoes and discover why they are more than just a practical alternative to their fresh counterparts.
Why should you use canned tomatoes?
Canned tomatoes are available year-round, regardless of the tomato season. This allows you to enjoy the flavor and benefits of tomatoes in your dishes even when fresh tomatoes are out of season or not readily accessible. They are also convenient to use as they are pre-cooked, peeled, and often diced or crushed. This can save you time and effort in preparing dishes that require tomatoes as an ingredient.
Furthermore, canned tomatoes are often more affordable than fresh tomatoes, especially when the latter is out of season or in regions where they are not locally grown. This makes canned tomatoes a cost-effective option for adding tomato flavor to your dishes.
Environmental impact
Canned tomatoes can be more environmentally friendly than fresh tomatoes in certain circumstances. Here are a few reasons why.
Reduced food waste: Fresh tomatoes have a relatively short shelf life and can spoil quickly if not consumed or refrigerated promptly. This can lead to significant food waste if not managed properly. Canning allows tomatoes to be preserved for extended periods, reducing the likelihood of spoilage and minimizing food waste.
Extended availability: Canned tomatoes provide a consistent and readily available source of tomatoes throughout the year, even when fresh tomatoes are out of season. This reduces the demand for out-of-season fresh tomatoes, which often require long-distance transportation and energy-intensive greenhouse production methods. By opting for canned tomatoes during the off-season, consumers can reduce the environmental impact associated with the production and transportation of fresh tomatoes.
Efficient transportation: Canned tomatoes are generally more compact and have a longer shelf life, allowing for more efficient transportation and reduced carbon emissions. Transporting fresh tomatoes often involves refrigerated trucks or air transportation to maintain their quality and freshness, which can have a higher carbon footprint compared to canned tomatoes that can be transported at ambient temperature.
Reduced water usage: Tomato cultivation requires significant amounts of water, particularly in regions with water scarcity. Canning tomatoes can help reduce water usage by preserving tomatoes that may otherwise be discarded due to imperfections or surplus supply. Additionally, canned tomatoes often require less water for processing and canning compared to fresh tomato production, which involves washing, sorting, and packing.
Reduced packaging waste: While packaging materials are required for canned tomatoes, they are typically more efficient in terms of weight and volume compared to the packaging used for fresh tomatoes. Canned tomatoes also have a longer shelf life, which means they can be stored without the need for additional packaging or preservation techniques, such as plastic wraps or coatings.
Health benefits
Canned tomatoes can offer several health benefits, so here are some of the key health benefits you should know about.
Nutrient-rich: Canned tomatoes are packed with essential nutrients, and are a good source of vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals like potassium and folate. These nutrients contribute to a healthy immune system, support eye health, and help maintain overall well-being.
Lycopene content: Tomatoes are a rich source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant and carotenoid pigment responsible for their red color. Canned tomatoes are actually known to have higher levels of lycopene compared to fresh tomatoes. Lycopene has been linked to a reduced risk of certain types of cancer, including prostate, lung, and stomach cancers. It also has potential cardiovascular benefits and may help protect against heart disease.
Antioxidant properties: Canned tomatoes contain various antioxidants (such as vitamin C, beta-carotene, and flavonoids) which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body and reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. This can support overall health and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, including certain cancers and cardiovascular conditions.
Nutritional stability: The canning process used for tomatoes helps preserve their nutritional value. Canned tomatoes retain their vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants over time, making them a reliable source of nutrients even during off-seasons when fresh tomatoes may not be as readily available or affordable.
Cooking benefits: Cooking tomatoes enhances their nutritional benefits by making the lycopene and other antioxidants more bioavailable, meaning they are easier for the body to absorb and utilize.
How to use canned tomatoes in the kitchen
Canned tomatoes are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes to add a burst of flavor and richness. Let’s wrap up this ultimate guide to canned tomatoes with some of our favorite ways to use them in the kitchen.
In the world of culinary choices, the decision between fresh and canned tomatoes often arises. While fresh tomatoes have long been cherished for their taste and nutritional value, canned tomatoes offer a range of advantages that make them a practical and flavorful option. From their environmental impact to astounding health benefits, canned tomatoes are one pantry staple you should always have on hand.
Research continues to show that eating a balanced variety of fruits, vegetables, protein, dairy, and grains can play a large role in overall health. While MyPlate serves as a guide to help us make healthy dietary choices, where do canned tomatoes fit into the picture?
MyPlate is an initiative by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), and provides practical guidance for building a healthy and balanced diet. It emphasizes the importance of including various food groups in appropriate proportions to meet nutritional needs. While fresh produce often takes the spotlight, canned tomatoes hold a unique position within the MyPlate guidelines.
Canned tomatoes offer numerous health benefits, making them a valuable addition to the MyPlate guidelines. These versatile ingredients are a part of the vegetable group within the MyPlate classification, specifically falling under the subcategory of non-starchy vegetables.
So, let’s explore the significance of including canned tomatoes in MyPlate and highlight the specific food group classification where they fall.
Nutritional Value of Canned Tomatoes
Canned tomatoes boast an impressive nutritional profile that contributes to overall health and well-being. Here are some key reasons why they deserve a place in the vegetable group of MyPlate.
Vitamins and Minerals: Canned tomatoes are rich in essential vitamins, including vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin K, and various B-complex vitamins. These vitamins play a vital role in supporting the immune system, promoting vision health, aiding blood clotting, and supporting energy production. Additionally, canned tomatoes provide minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium, which are crucial for maintaining healthy bodily functions, including nerve transmission, muscle function, and bone health.
Antioxidants: Canned tomatoes contain a potent antioxidant called lycopene. Lycopene is a carotenoid pigment responsible for the vibrant red color of tomatoes. It has been associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases, including certain types of cancer and heart disease. Lycopene’s antioxidant properties help protect cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals.
Fiber Content: Canned tomatoes are a good source of dietary fiber, contributing to digestive health and providing a feeling of satiety. Fiber aids in maintaining regular bowel movements, reducing the risk of constipation, and promoting overall gastrointestinal health.
Health Benefits of Including Canned Tomatoes in MyPlate
Incorporating canned tomatoes into your MyPlate guidelines offers notable health benefits, including:
Cardiovascular Health. The combination of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants in canned tomatoes supports heart health. The potassium content helps maintain healthy blood pressure levels, while lycopene and other antioxidants contribute to reducing the risk of heart disease.
Cancer Prevention. Lycopene, the prominent antioxidant in canned tomatoes, has been linked to a decreased risk of certain cancers, such as prostate, lung, and stomach cancers. Including canned tomatoes in your diet can provide a convenient and concentrated source of lycopene, supporting your body’s defense against cancer development.
Incorporating Canned Tomatoes into Your MyPlate Guidelines
Now that we understand the health benefits of canned tomatoes, let’s explore how to include them within the vegetable group of MyPlate.
Vegetable Side Dishes: Add canned tomatoes to vegetable-based side dishes, such as stir-fries, soups, stews, and sautés. They can enhance the flavors while providing valuable nutrients.
Sauces and Salsas: Utilize canned tomatoes as a base for homemade sauces and salsas. Combine them with other vegetables and herbs for a nutritious and flavorful addition to your meals.
Salads: Incorporate canned tomatoes into salads alongside fresh vegetables for added color, texture, and taste.
Summary
Canned tomatoes are a versatile and nutrient-rich ingredient that belongs to the vegetable group within the MyPlate guidelines. They offer essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and dietary fiber, contributing to a healthy and balanced diet. Including canned tomatoes in your meals can support cardiovascular health, aid in cancer prevention, and facilitate weight management. By incorporating these flavorful ingredients into your MyPlate guidelines, you can enjoy the convenience and nutritional benefits they provide while diversifying your vegetable intake and embracing a more wholesome eating pattern.
Ever wonder how canned tomatoes get from the field to your plate? Here’s a step by step guide to how the farm to table process works.
Tomatoes are a staple ingredient in many of the World’s favorite dishes like Pizza, Ketchup, Pasta Sauce and Salsa, and are an important part of the global food industry. The process of getting tomato products from the farm to the restaurant involves several steps, each of which plays a critical role in ensuring the quality and deliciousness of the final product. In this article, we will explore the step-by-step farm to table process of how a tomato product gets from the fields to your plate.
Step 1: Growing and Harvesting
The first step in the process of getting tomato products from the farm to the restaurant is growing and harvesting the tomatoes. Tomato plants require warm temperatures and ample sunlight to grow, and they are typically planted in the spring and harvested in the summer and fall. Once the tomatoes are ripe, they are carefully picked by hand or by machine.
Step 2: Transporting to Processing Plant
After the tomatoes are harvested, they are transported to a processing plant. This is typically done using large trucks, which are specially designed to transport perishable goods like fresh tomatoes. During transportation, the tomatoes must be kept at the appropriate temperature to ensure their freshness and quality.
Step 3: Sorting and Washing
Once the tomatoes arrive at the processing plant, they are sorted and washed. The sorting process involves separating the tomatoes by size and color, and removing any damaged or diseased tomatoes. The tomatoes are then washed using a combination of water and chemical disinfectants to remove any dirt or bacteria
Step 4: Blanching and Peeling
After the tomatoes are sorted and washed, they are blanched and peeled. Blanching involves briefly exposing the tomatoes to hot water or steam, which helps to loosen the skins. The tomatoes are then run through a machine that removes the skins, leaving behind the tender flesh.
Step 5: Processing and Packaging
Once the tomatoes are peeled, they are minimally processed into the desired tomato product, such as tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, or tomato paste. The processing involves cooking the tomatoes to create the desired flavor and consistency. This step is also what preserves the tomato products and what releases the lycopene! The final product is then packaged in cans, jars, or other containers, which are sealed to ensure the product’s safety and freshness.
Step 6: Distribution
After the tomato products are packaged, they are ready for distribution. This involves transporting the products to warehouses, where they are then delivered to retailers, and foodservice establishments.
Step 7: Delivery to Restaurants
Finally, the tomato products are delivered to restaurants and other foodservice establishments, where they are used in a wide range of dishes, from soups and stews to pasta sauces and pizzas. Restaurants typically order tomato products in large quantities, which are stored in their kitchens until they are ready to be used.
Summary
The process of getting tomato products from the farm to your favorite restaurants and your home involves several critical steps. Each step plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality and safety of the final product, and the end result is a delicious and versatile ingredient that is a staple in kitchens around the world.
Learn more about why buying USA-grown tomatoes is important for the local economy:
Marinara sauce and white sauce are both popular pasta sauces, but they differ in their ingredients and nutritional value. The former is made primarily from tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, while white sauce, also known as Alfredo sauce, is made from butter, cream, and cheese. In this article, we will explore the benefits of marinara sauce and why it is a better choice than white sauce.
Benefits of marinara sauce
Healthier nutritional profile
This is a healthier choice than white sauce because it is lower in calories, fat, and sodium. One cup of marinara sauce contains only about 70 calories, while the same amount of white sauce can contain up to 500 calories or more. The former is also a good source of vitamin C and lycopene, which is an antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.
Versatility
Marinara sauce is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from pasta and pizza to meatballs and stews. Its tangy flavor pairs well with a wide range of ingredients, making it a go-to sauce for many cooks. White sauce, on the other hand, is limited in its versatility and is typically used only in pasta dishes.
Lower in Fat and Cholesterol
This option is lower in fat and cholesterol than white sauce, making it a healthier choice for those who are watching their weight or cholesterol levels. Marinara sauce contains only a small amount of fat, while white sauce is high in saturated fat and cholesterol. Consuming too much saturated fat and cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems.
Easy to Make at Home
Marinara sauce is easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients, such as tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. Homemade marinara sauce is also free of preservatives and additives, making it a healthier choice than store-bought sauces. White sauce, on the other hand, can be more difficult to make at home and often requires specialty ingredients like heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
Cost-effective
This red sauce is often more cost-effective, as the ingredients required to make it are typically less expensive. This makes it an ideal choice for families or individuals on a budget. White sauce, on the other hand, can be more expensive due to the cost of ingredients like cream and cheese.
Summary
Marinara sauce is a better choice than white sauce due to its healthier nutritional profile, versatility, lower fat and cholesterol content, ease of preparation, and cost-effectiveness. Incorporating marinara sauce into your cooking can be a simple and delicious way to improve your overall health and well-being.
Check out some of our favorite recipes for cooking inspiration:
Get the scoop on Tomato Wellness member, Los Gatos Tomatoes. We are proud to have this company as part of the Tomato Wellness Family!
For over three decades, Los Gatos Tomato Products has earned a reputation for their commitment to customers and the environment as an industry-leading supplier of high-quality tomato paste. Their strong commitment to the industry, coupled with a focus on long-term relationships with customers and growers, make it an honor to profile this Tomato Wellness founding member.
Los Gatos Tomato Products was established in 1991 in the heart of Western Fresno County with the objective of growing and harvesting tomatoes from the most productive growing region in the world with a singular focus on producing high-quality tomato paste. Presently, four families with multi-generational farming operations and deep roots in agriculture serve as both committed growers and owners with shared values and commitment to a sustainable future.
The location of the processing facility is environmentally advantageous because of the short transit time from field to processing, with the majority of tomatoes grown within a close proximity to the plant. Long term relationships with growers and customers allows for alignment in the production of high-quality tomato paste tailored to customer needs and specifications.
The dedicated team at Los Gatos Tomato Products has built their reputation on quality and consistency over the years. Their customers have come to rely on a trusted supply of high-quality tomato paste for their products.
We applaud the values of Los Gatos Tomato Products as an authentically quality and sustainably minded processor and appreciate their contributions to our industry.
Try one of their tomato products in some of our favorite recipes!
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